Tag: Social Behavior Change Communication

Studies have not only shown that the majority of malnourished people are women and girls, but analyses of the distribution of nutrition-related tasks have also revealed the heavy workload of women and low involvement of men. This is why it is important to take gender relations into consideration in the fight against malnutrition.

The Nepal experience has generated many lessons that JSI, in partnership with the Nepalese government, have used to provide guidance and technical assistance to governments around the world that are interested in the use of chlorhexidine.

It became increasingly clear as Kristina prepared for the arrival of her son that while training and counseling can provide critical information, it sometimes isn’t enough. A health worker or volunteer often has a fleeting and ephemeral interaction with mothers and while their guidance as professionals is certainly respected, a mother’s relationship with her child is intimately personal. This emotional nuance can be overpowering, making information from friends, family, and peers much more trusted.

Use of chlorhexidine for umbilical cord care has been shown to prevent infection. However, JSI’s Leela Khanal explains that implementing chlorhexidine interventions alone may not be enough; communication to providers and mothers can enhance uptake and effectiveness of these interventions to save lives.